Glasshouse | Seattle

Volunteer Park Conservatory | Seattle WA

---

Volunteer park conservatory is in the Capitol Hill neighborhood of Seattle. It was built in 1912, is modeled after London’s Crystal Palace and is home to a wide variety of plants from around the world (including a room full of palms–so trendy right now).

For me, visiting conservatories is always a reminder that taking a break from the screen (phone, emails, Netflix binges)  to focus on the green (nature, of course) is a welcome and necessary break from the static of being constantly on-the-grid.I spend so many hours pounding out emails and double tapping photos of sunsets that sometimes I’m guilty of losing focus on experiencing the majesty of the beautiful place I live. It’s earth day weekend. What are you doing to celebrate?

Consume | Austin•TX (Food + Drinks Want-To-Do List)

If I let my mind wander to Austin it skips the plane ride completely and instead takes a shortcut right through my insatiable appetite for all things Tex-Mex. I imagine the types of Taco-centric lunches I’d indulge in; what kind of spicy mimosa I might stumble across on a brunch menu; and how long my eyes would be closed during my first bite of Texas BBQ.

Eating and trying new things is a part of traveling that really deepens the experience, and while I’ve never been to Austin before you better believe that I have a list that I’ve started compiling for when I get the chance to go. It covers all the bases from morning to night and even a little snacking in between. Check it out:

• Flat Track
• Houndstooth
• Thunderbird
• Sister
• Stouthaus
• Cuvee
• Patika

• Easy Tiger
• Stubbs
• Elizabeth St. Cafe
• La Condesa
• Contigo
• Odd Duck
• Home Slice

• Qui
• Weather Up
• Launderette
• Garage
• Peche
• Half Step

• Cow Tipping Creamery
• St Philip (PIZZA AND DONUTS WAT?)
• Cold Ones Pops
• Sugar Mama’s Bake Shop
• Tiny Pies
• Gourdough’s

---

And after all that I’m just here at a coffee bar eating a cold chocolate pastry and dreaming of doughnuts…

If you have any suggestions for Austin please let me know in a comment or email!

Speak to you soon,

x

AUSTIN•TX | 6 dreamy AirBNBs

As I mentioned before, SXSW is this week and, boy, do I have Austin on the brain. Dying for an adventure and craving to see a new place; all I can think of are taco trucks, sunny patios and thick, boisterous accents from some of our nation’s loudest and proudest (Texans, I’m looking at you).

While I haven’t been to Austin before I do have a whole to do list dreamed up complete with places to stay, things to eat and destinations to see. This trendy city in central Texas has stolen a little bit of my heart and I haven’t even been there yet. Figures.

---

When I start planning a trip I typically start with where I’ll be spending my nights and instagramming my morning coffee–my accommodations, or more specifically my AirBNB. As I’ve mentioned before AirBNB is my jam; it offers you, the traveler, a chance to stay in a place with character, conveniences past those of a hotel and (sometimes) free cookies.

So, naturally, I’ve scoped out my favorite digs in Austin. I picked places with charm, lots of natural light and plenty of potential for that #vscogood shot.

Click the photos for links to the accomodations! (They vary in price, size and location).

 

Lookout on Larry | Cherry Wood: I didn’t have any further questions after I saw the honey-colored wood paneling, the exposed beams and the minimal decor that was saturated with sunshine. 10/10 would sit in that rocking chair with a neat whiskey in my hand and bad jokes pouring out of my mouth.

Modern Loft | Downtown: Don’t tell me you’re not enticed by this contemporary, industrial haven. Take a look at that light fixture; that very nappable, sophisticated sectional; and those skyline window views! If you think Austin looks good from the window, then you’re in for a real treat when you see it from the roof.

Garden Cottage | East Austin: Cute, quaint, cozy and complete with a tiny pig running around in the backyard; this backyard bungalow has me dying over it’s eclectic pieces and map lined walls. If I could go on a solo adventure tomorrow I would inquire about this place on the immediate.

Hip Central Eastside Bungalow: They had me at complimentary bottle of wine or 6 pack of local brews…and maybe the clawfoot tub, Franklin stove and the “perfect back porch for BBQs” had a little something to do with it, too.

Spacious and Charming | Downtown: Do I need to explain or….?

LAST BUT NOT LEAST:

 Cozy in East Austin: Came for the mugs and porch swing, stayed for the proximity to food trucks.

---

Stay tuned for my Austin to do list coming up later this week. You probably shouldn’t raise your expectations to extend past fried foods, coffee and places to see the cutest puppies.

Speak to you soon!

x

Milan, Italy | Photo Diary

The moment when I realized I’d left my cell phone on the table was a moment that was full of emotion–first silently and then loud. Profanities bounced off the walls of our tiny AirBNB apartment as I paced and retraced my steps of the afternoon in my brain.

Finally after going through my mental rolodex of curses, I determined that the only place it could possibly be was at the tavern with the slightly-too-sweet tiramisu. We were all the way back across town in our apartment and for a moment I thought “I can do this trip without my phone.” Then reality swung a punch and I realized “no, you absolutely cannot you fool.”

With a pit in my stomach and eyes to the ground I saw the pavement blur by as began to run (with little to no dignity or faith and a shortage of breath) to where I hoped my phone still remained.  Back down into the metro I’d go, barreling onto the train and then back off again; speed walking under the shade of the duomo, across the piazza, down the narrow alleys and finally stumbling into the kitchen of the tavern.

I probably could’ve come across less panicked (it probably seemed like I’d left my child there) but the servers understood, even through my broken Italian, what was going on. After the longest two minutes of my life, the owner finished his phone call, reached behind the counter and handed it to me with a smile. I have never been so happy in my life. Bless you sweet, sweet Italian man. May you be forever blessed with lots of happy customers to your restaurant of checkered tablecloths and delicious lasagna. Please take care of your bee problem on the patio. Sincerely, Lauren.

—

There will never come a day when Italy does not hold a special place in my heart. Since my first visit there in 2011 I’ve known that the Italian lifestyle is one I can get behind. Schedules are more relaxed, there’s always pizza (or calzones), sentences sound like songs rather than statements, being surrounded by centuries old architectures with one million stories to imagine, dinners that run late into the night, wine continually flowing and.. the men. The Italian men, ya’ll. My kryp-to-nite.

 

And next time I’m in Italy? The south. I’m aching to see the Amalfi coast, Sardinia, and the secret panini places hidden in alleys in the smallest towns. They’re always the best.

Speak to you soon!

 

x

 

South of France | Photo Diary

The South of France was like stepping onto a movie set; everything felt so glamourous.

When we traipsed off the train in Cannes, it was almost too easy to fall into the lifestyle of the quaint, french resort town. Every morning was spent lazily, draped across the furniture in the den sipping coffee and checking emails until hunger took over. After preparing our breakfasts of quiche and fresh mango, we’d open the big french doors and take our plates out to the glorious balcony that overlooked Rue d’Antibes (the main street in Cannes).
•
Around early afternoon we’d embark on adventures for the day. We hopped a train to Monaco and picnicked in the park and to Nice to link arms and chasse down the boardwalk. Sitting in beachside chairs facing the Cote d’Azur, we imagined the luxurious lives awaiting others in the oceanfront penthouse suites above. (Fear not, between popping into the shops and exploring the alleys, we found plenty of time for wines and cheeses.)
•
Each night the sunsets appeared to be painted onto the sky and they echoed across the pristine panes of the windows that paneled the romantic buildings lining every avenue. The south of France is as beautiful as we hoped. We finished the days almost just as we had started them: on the balcony. Wine in hand and the aromas of dinner wafting through the french doors that lead back into our charming AirBNB apartment.
•
As a million stars filled the sky and were uninterrupted by any big city lights, all I could think about was how perfect the easygoing nature of the south of France had been for us. Paris was calling and after a few days we’d be thrust back into the familiar routine of fast-paced traveling. For now, it was okay to take it slow. After all, traveling isn’t about how many extravagant attractions you see or how many trip-advisor recommended restaurants you eat in. It’s about the moments; it’s about the experience; it’s about the little things.

In the long run, they’re what you remember most.

24 Hours in Vienna | City Guide

 

Guten Tag! While I’m currently writing this blog from my couch in Milan, I only arrived here from Vienna yesterday. Finis (my best friend) and I spent a few really lovely days there and I was so excited to share what we saw and did! Even though we were there for four days, I thought I’d narrow it down and tell you about our favorite things in the form of a 24-hour guide for Vienna.

Vienna is in eastern Austria and has a history rich with culture and wiener schnitzel. The home of several renowned artists and political figures, there’s definitely a lot to see within the city. These days, Austria’s bustling with locals and tourists alike. A destination for viennese culture, lovers of classical music and adventure–Vienna is worth a visit.

ACCOMODATIONS:
While Vienna does offer a lot of hotels, we opted to go with airBNB for our time there. We stayed in a really lovely apartment (found here) that was a five minute walk from the Museumsquartier and the Naschmarkt. This was a great area to be in because of how accessible it was to those spots, but also for how close it was to the metro.

*I definitely recommend airBNB for wherever you may be going! It’s a great way to stay somewhere cool for likely an affordable price*

24 HOUR GUIDE:
MORNING
EAT: European breakfast often consists of coffee and a pastry or toast (perhaps with ham or cheese), and that was also the case with Austria. Our favorite place we went was called Cafe Sperl, located near the museumsquartier. The dark wood interior of the room juxtaposed with the light flooding in through the windows made for an elegant but comfortable atmosphere. We sat down at a table near the front door and perused the menu; I decided on the apricot cake (house made) and a latte. Within minutes our table was decorated with beautiful pastries and coffee presented to us on a silver platter. The cafe offers newspapers for its guests, as well as free wifi, and is a charming place to spend a morning.

*YOU SHOULD TRY: Wiener Apfelstrudel | Viennese Apple Strudel.

DO: After grabbing some morning fuel, head over to the Museumsquartier for some culture. The huge square behind the gates is a great place to relax. We visited the Leopold museum: “…one of the world’s most important assemblages of Austrian art. At the heart of the collection are masterpieces of Viennese Art Nouveau, in particular by members of the Vienna Secession founded by Gustav Klimt, and representative works of Austrian Expressionism” -MQ website

The mumok (modern art) looked awesome, although we didn’t get to visit that one. I also heard really great things about the Albertine Museum and the Freud Museum (in a different part of town)  Across the street from the MQ is the national library and it is gorrrrgeous. Floor to ceiling with all the books you can imagine. Definitely block out some time for that as well.

AFTERNOON:
EAT: From the MQ, the Naschmarkt is only about a five minute walk. After sashaying down the aisles of fresh product, local goods and pastries, find a restaurant to stop in for lunch. The variety is vast, spanning everything from traditional Viennese cuisine to Japanese to Italian. If you can’t find something you like within the market there are a lot of delicious options on the streets bordering the market as well.

DO: Hop on the metro and head over to the Leopoldstadt district to visit Prater, an amusement park. The park is most known for it’s giant ferris wheel, but there were some other gems in there as well. Not only are there rides, but there are games and biergartens galore inside the gates. Note: if you don’t like clowns…look out.

Afterwards, jump on back on the metro and head to Stephansdom (St. Stephen’s). This gothic/romanesque cathedral is gorgeous on the inside, but the multicolored roof is a conversation starter in itself.

The cathedral is located in the first district of Vienna, Innere Stadt, which is home to important historic landmarks such as the Erzbischöfliches Palais, the University district (lots of bars and restaurants here), the Burggarten and the Volksgarten, the Palais Pallavicini, the Hofburg palace and SO many other things. Just strolling around (with a map…or a guide) will give you an amazing taste of austria’s history and culture.

Shopping is through the side streets, but most notable on the Kärntner Straße and the Graben.

EVENING:
EAT: While we were headed to the grocery one day we passed a restaurant that had a killer interior called Mark’s, and vowed to go back for dinner. We kept our self-promise and made our way back that night; upon sitting down at a table on the outside patio I knew we had made the right choice. I ordered a spritz (always über refreshing) grilled calamari atop lavender risotto+vanilla butter with a garnish of baby carrots. The flavor isn’t even something I can talk about because of how interesting and delicious it was! Finis ordered the Salmon and it was divine; served with an israeli cous-cous and a bacon, olive jam. Wunderbar.

DO: Vienna is full of exciting nightlife that appeals to a variety of different scenes. Unfortunately I was working most evenings so I had to skip this part, but I did run across a really killer guide with more advice on that topic here.

OTHER CITIES ON MY AUSTRIA BUCKET LIST:
• Salzburg
• Innsbruck

(Hopefully some day I’ll be able to check those out.)

—

In the mean time, as I told you, we’re in Milano now indulging in the three p’s of Italy: pizza, pasta and paninis. We’ve done some exploring today so I’ll have updates to you soon!

 

Ciao!

 

x

Transcontinental | Monday Playlist

 

As I sit in my third airport in two days, the excitement of going to Europe again has finally set in. The last leg of the journey is finally in motion, and the anticipation of exploring new cities with my best friend and my camera is beginning to take over.

It’s labor day, so hopefully that means you’re spending your day–you know–not laboring. In the mean time, it’s playlist day! So from the floor of BNA I present to you this weeks collection of spotify jams.

 

 

I can’t wait to share my wandering with you all! So many photos to take and so much cheese to eat; that’s why everyone goes to Europe, right? Tomorrow I wake up in Vienna. Stoked.

To follow my adventures in real time follow me on instagram at @lacunningham and on twitter at @peacelovelc.

Speak to you soon!

x

Concrete Jungle | Cincinnati Photo Diary

 

Wanted to share a few more photos from my trip to Cincinnati OH last month. I’ve got on more entry to the photo diary to post, but then it’s off to the beach!

Posting has been a little sparse recently and here’s why: things are so crazy that I feel I may be actually going I N S A N E. Between moving, tying up loose ends in Nashville, getting ready for the beach next week and then heading up to Seattle immediately after that–my head is spinning. So much excitement and adventure awaits!

But I’ve got to admit, my week at the beach that’s on the horizon is what’s keeping me going right now.

I’ll get a (late) playlist up just as soon as I get some time.

 

Have a great week!

 

x

Findlay Market | Cincinnati OH City Guide

Top 10 Reasons you should visit the Findlay Market in Cincinnati:

10. Buckeyes. If you’ve been to Ohio before, then it’s probably been recommended to you to try these sweet, ohio-specific, treats. Buckeyes start out with a creamy, peanut butter center that is dipped into chocolate which then hardens into the perfect shell. (It’s better than Reese’s, guys.)  Not only are there buckeyes available, but other sugary surprises like macaroons, homemade fruit tarts, and SO many cookies.
9. Fresh Flowers. One of my favorite parts of any farmer’s market are the buckets of fresh flowers set out for people to admire and purchase. The bright colors are so hard to resist and the temptation to buy some for the table is always too much to fight. The cool thing about the Findlay market was the selection of air plants and unique, decorative plants. I was really taken with this little fellow who had purple chiles growing off of it’s vines and I hope to find another one like it some day.
8. Butchers. You’ll never have more desire to throw a backyard end-of-summer BBQ than you will when you see what these guys have got for you. So many brats and steaks that looked like prime cuts.
7. Produce. There was such a wide variety of fruits and vegetables available at Findlay! I was truly impressed by how many different things each of the venders was offering.
6. Local artisans. On Saturdays at the market the fun spills out the doors of the main building and into an outdoor area that houses artists from all over the city! You’ll be able to find cool mementos, decor and vintage items that you otherwise might be rare to run across.
5. Belgian Waffles. I was specifically told to find “the waffle place” in the market, so you better believe that (after finishing a slice of to-die-for bacon+spinach quiche) that I did. The menu was written on a chalkboard hanging on the wall above the waffle irons: nutella waffles, waffles with fresh fruit on top, crepes…all of it sounded like the best decision. I settled on one with fresh fruit and a dollop of whipped cream. The verdict: delicious. The texture was a marriage of crispy, sugary cinnamon roll and hot, crunchy waffle.
4. You’ll feel like you’ve somehow escaped to Europe. Surrounding Findlay Market are streets lined with houses that are painted in the brightest of hues. Flowers cascade out of window boxes making the buildings, that were once run down, come to life.
3. Cheese. One of the first food counters I saw inside the market was selling fresh cheese. This wasn’t your ordinary cheese display case, though; it was filled with cheeses from all OVER. Through the glass I saw manchegos, bries, mozzerellas, goudas, parmeseans…all sourced locally or from around the world. The selection offered was diverse, the man behind the counter was well-versed and the overall prices were super affordable, just in queso you were wondering.
2. The History. Findlay Market was built in 1852 and has been a running market since 1855. Throughout the market bits of history are inlaid within the mosiaics, the table tops and the walls themselves.
1. People watching. Get yourself out there on a Saturday, grab a coffee and watch the floodgates of Cincy burst wide open with people from all over: parents and kids, out-of-towners, farmers,  old, young, artsy, business, everyone from everywhere. Local musicians performing their sultry saxophone solos on corners and the hum of friendly conversation make up the perfect background noise for such a diverse and bustling place. Sit there all day if you want, not a second of it would be wasted.

—

One more Cincy recommendation and a full city guide coming to you later this week!

Speak to you soon!

 

x

Countdown (On moving to Seattle) | Monday Playlist

I can’t believe it’s already been a year since I moved into my house in Nashville.  I can’t believe it’s already been five years since I moved away from my home state of Arkansas to start a completely new chapter of life that has shaped me more than I can explain. College, friends, people who introduced me to hot chicken.. it’s been a doozy. Although this won’t be my sappy “I’m going to miss you Nashville,” post  you can rest assured that one will be coming at some point in the next few weeks. Why? I’ll tell you.

For those of you who don’t know, in a few weeks I’ll be uprooting from this amazing town I’ve been calling home and relocating to the pacific northwest. Seattle! There are a lot of things on the horizon for me and it’s just a move I know I need and want to make. It’s certainly not that I’m hot happy in Nashville, I love it here; Everything just fell into place so quickly and seamlessly and there has never been better time for relocating. I’m so excited for a new wind of creativity and inspiration; a regular diet of coffee and poutine (thanks canada); and new people and experiences that await me.

Before I get there, though, I’ve got a trip to the beach in two weeks and a trip to europe in a month. This playlist is called countdown for more reasons that I can even explain. So here it is! Monday playlist: Countdown.
 

 
Speak to you soon!

 

x